There’s something comforting about a creamy casserole that’s both hearty and full of flavor.
This Green Bean Casserole Pioneer Woman style brings together tender green beans, smoky bacon, and a rich cheese sauce topped with crunchy breadcrumbs.
It’s classic holiday comfort food with a little extra flair.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It upgrades the traditional green bean casserole with fresh beans and real cheese.
The bacon and pimientos add smoky, savory, and slightly sweet notes.
It’s baked with a golden panko topping for crunch.
Perfect for Thanksgiving, potlucks, or family dinners.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Fresh green beans keep the dish crisp-tender instead of mushy.
Bacon adds smokiness that balances the creamy sauce.
Butter, flour, and milk create a silky base for the cheddar sauce.
Sharp cheddar cheese brings bold flavor.
Panko breadcrumbs bake into a crunchy topping.
Pimientos add subtle sweetness and color.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Blanch beans briefly, then shock in ice water to lock in color and crispness.
Use freshly grated cheddar for the smoothest sauce.
If the sauce feels too thick, loosen it with a splash of chicken broth.
Toast panko lightly in butter before topping for extra crunch.
How to Make Green Bean Casserole Pioneer Woman
Step 1 – Prep the beans
Blanch green beans in boiling water for 3–4 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath. Drain well.
Step 2 – Cook bacon and aromatics
Fry chopped bacon until crisp, then add onion and garlic. Sauté until golden.
Step 3 – Make the cheese sauce
Melt butter in a pan, whisk in flour, then slowly add milk and half-and-half.
Season with salt, pepper, and cayenne. Stir in cheddar until melted.
Step 4 – Combine everything
Mix green beans, bacon mixture, pimientos, and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish.
Step 5 – Add topping and bake
Sprinkle with panko breadcrumbs and bake at 350°F (176°C) for 30 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
What to Serve It With
Serve alongside roast turkey or chicken.
Pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes and gravy.
Great addition to a holiday spread with stuffing and rolls.
Variations / Substitutions
Swap panko for crushed Ritz crackers.
Use Gruyère instead of cheddar for a nuttier flavor.
Add mushrooms for extra umami.
Make it vegetarian by skipping the bacon.
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm and bubbly.
Avoid freezing; the sauce may separate.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it a day ahead and bake before serving.
Can I use canned green beans?
You can, but fresh beans give the best texture.
Do I have to use pimientos?
They add sweetness and color, but you can skip or replace with roasted red peppers.
What if I don’t have half-and-half?
Use more milk or substitute with cream for richness.
Can I prepare without bacon?
Yes, just add a bit more butter or olive oil for sautéing.
How do I prevent a lumpy sauce?
Whisk constantly while adding milk gradually.
Can I add more cheese?
Definitely—extra cheese will make it even richer.
What’s the best baking dish size?
A 9×13-inch dish works perfectly.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
How do I keep the topping crispy?
Bake uncovered and toast panko before topping.
Final Thoughts
This Green Bean Casserole Pioneer Woman style takes a holiday favorite and makes it extra special.
With fresh beans, smoky bacon, and a cheesy sauce, it’s the ultimate side dish to bring warmth and comfort to your table.
